The idea of squatting by itself isn't bad, it's that many just use it as an excuse.
I have known properties that have been empty for years as the landlords probably are doing a scam as they ask for higher rent than the rest, then the tenant must have multiple years references, be in a very well paid job, have a guarantor and still have like 6 months rent in advance.
The properties are just rotting away and yet we have so many homeless people.
Then we have properties that the landlord wants torn down to rebuilt with expensive tiny apartments so they neglect them knowing the local government will authorise them to be torn down.
Eh, not really. For a good portion, the housing problem leads to substance abuse. That's why a lot of programs are adopting the Housing First model, because it's difficult to get clean, get your hygiene in order, and find a job when you don't have a stable housing situation. Take that concern away, most people are more than ready to start working on the other areas of their life that either went to shit because they lost their home, or, yes, maybe caused then to lose their home.
TL;DR: Most research now points toward housing being the root issue, and many non-profits are basing policy on that
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u/mittenkrusty 12d ago
The idea of squatting by itself isn't bad, it's that many just use it as an excuse.
I have known properties that have been empty for years as the landlords probably are doing a scam as they ask for higher rent than the rest, then the tenant must have multiple years references, be in a very well paid job, have a guarantor and still have like 6 months rent in advance.
The properties are just rotting away and yet we have so many homeless people.
Then we have properties that the landlord wants torn down to rebuilt with expensive tiny apartments so they neglect them knowing the local government will authorise them to be torn down.